What cleaners or sanitizers can I use?

CCOF cannot recommend any specific cleaners or sanitizers. Processors/handlers are permitted to use any sanitizer allowed for cleaning food contact surfaces as long as the sanitizer does not leave a residue and does not come in contact with organic products. Sanitizers that contact organic products must be on the National List (205.605). The National List (205.600-205.606) is available by visiting the National Organic Program website or by downloading the USDA National Organic Standards, 7 CFR Part 205.

There are a few sanitizing agents listed specifically on 205.605 as allowed for cleaning of equipment and/or direct food contact. Chlorine, peroxyacetic acid, hydrogen peroxide and ozone are a few with particular annotations.

Any sanitizers or cleaners that may come into contact with organic product, such as no-rinse sanitizers or wash water additives, must be reviewed by CCOF. To have a sanitizer or cleaner reviewed by CCOF, submit a label listing the ingredients to ccof@ccof.org. Once approved by CCOF, the material will be added to your approved Organic System Plan (OSP) Materials List.

Use MyCCOF: Materials Search to find and add materials approved for use in organic production or to request the review of a material you would like to use.